There are breweries, and then there are places that feel like they were built specifically for you — as if someone looked at what you needed on a Friday afternoon and just went ahead and made it real. Exile Brewing Company, tucked into the vibrant East Village neighborhood of Des Moines, is firmly in that second category.
From the moment you walk through the door of their flagship taproom on East Court Avenue, you get the sense that this place has earned its spot. The building itself has bones — exposed brick, high ceilings, and the kind of industrial-meets-cozy design that doesn’t feel forced. It’s the sort of room where conversations start easily and last longer than you planned. The bar stretches generously across one wall, and the tap handles line up like a very promising menu.
And that menu delivers. Exile brews a rotating lineup of craft beers that span the full range of what a serious yet approachable brewery should offer. Their flagship Ruthie IPA has a loyal following for good reason — it’s bright, citrusy, and confident without being combative. If you’re in the mood for something darker and more contemplative, their stouts and porters reward the patient drinker. Seasonals and limited releases keep regulars coming back just to see what’s new, and the staff are genuinely knowledgeable without ever making you feel like you need a certification to ask a question.
What really sets Exile apart, though, is the back patio. On a warm Iowa evening, there is no better place in the city to be. String lights, communal tables, and an energy that manages to feel both lively and relaxed — it’s the kind of outdoor space that makes you wonder why you ever sat inside. Locals know it fills up fast on weekends, so arriving by early evening is a smart move if you want to snag a good table.
The food program holds its own, too. Exile’s kitchen turns out elevated pub fare — think thoughtful burgers, shareable plates, and a few items that will genuinely surprise you for a brewery menu. It’s not an afterthought; it’s a full meal worth planning around.
The East Village location puts you within easy walking distance of some of Des Moines’ best boutiques, coffee shops, and the Iowa State Capitol building, so building an afternoon around the neighborhood before settling in at Exile is an entirely reasonable plan.
Whether you’re a craft beer devotee or simply someone who appreciates a well-run room with great atmosphere, Exile Brewing Company is one of those places that sticks with you. Des Moines has a lot to brag about, and this is one of the brags that holds up every single time.
